respectful

adjective

re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
Synonyms of respectfulnext
: marked by or showing respect or deference
respectfully
ri-ˈspekt-fə-lē How to pronounce respectful (audio)
adverb
respectfulness noun

Synonyms of respectful

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Examples of respectful in a Sentence

the children were remarkably respectful while in the president's office
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The messages, reviewed by Semafor, were heated but respectful. — Ben Smith, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2026 There, the esteemed man himself answers the respectful but probing questions of journalists. — Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 23 Oct. 2026 Owens also spoke in respectful tones when referring to Phog Allen. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026 The United States’ network of defense pacts is poised to get stronger as its allies get stronger, but only if rebalancing occurs with consent, foresight, and respectful treatment of partners. — Charles Kupchan, Foreign Affairs, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for respectful

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respectful was in 1593

Rhymes for respectful

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Browse Nearby Words

respecter
respectful
respecting
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Cite this Entry

“Respectful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respectful. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

respectful

adjective
re·​spect·​ful ri-ˈspekt-fəl How to pronounce respectful (audio)
: marked by or showing respect
a respectful manner
respectful of others
respectfully
-fə-lē How to pronounce respectful (audio)
adverb
respectfulness noun
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